Abstract:
Beer is one of the most fascinating products of mankind. It is produced and consumed all over the world with a passion. Beer encompasses gregariousness and
communication, adds to the joy of living, and has
– above all – a unique taste. The
positive effects of moderate consumption of beer on health, body and the mind
cannot be denied, even by the most serious of critics.
The keyword “ Beer ” is the most frequently requested article in the Ullmann ’ s
Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry of Wiley - VCH. So, it was a natural next
step for the publisher to pull together the expertise on the fi ne art of beer - brewing
not only in the compact form of the classic textbook of my dear doctoral father,
Professor Dr. Ludwig Narzi ß (Abriss der Bierbrauerei), but also in its complete
breadth for an international audience in the successful ‘ Handbook ’ series. This
project continues the long - standing cooperation between Wiley - VCH and me, that
started in my time at Weihenstephan, intensifi ed during my years in Mannheim
and was cultivated during my time here in Freiberg.
I am grateful to the 29 authors who contributed 30 articles to this book. I am
especially indebted to the Director of the Weihenstephan Institute of Brewing
Technology, Prof. Dr. Werner Back and his team for writing down the latest fi ndings in brewing
-
technology. As every author has eagerly been awaiting the
publication date, it is great to see that all their hard work will now be rewarded with the
printed book. It is especially nice to see previously unpublished results in several
chapters, so that the brewers will gain from this valuable information.
Let this book introduce you to the world of beer: from the complicated markets
of procurement and retail to the many types of production of the natural and
healthy cultural item, beer. Join me in the exploration of a drink, that has a
tradition of thousands of years, is still an exciting
flavor adventure and as refreshing
as ever.